How to File for Divorce in Oregon Without a Lawyer (2026 Guide)

Overview: Filing for Divorce in Oregon Without a Lawyer

Oregon requires 6 months residency (no requirement if married in Oregon) with a 90-day waiting period. The state is pure no-fault using equitable distribution. DIY divorce is feasible.

Can You File Without a Lawyer in Oregon?

✓ Good Candidates for DIY Divorce:

Both agree to divorce
No minor children or agreement on custody/support
Agreement on property division
No spousal support disputes
Both willing to cooperate

⚠ Consider Hiring a Lawyer If:

Child custody or support disputes
Complex property division
Significant marital assets
Retirement accounts
Spouse contests

Find Oregon Divorce Lawyers →

Step-by-Step: How to File for Divorce in Oregon

Step 1

Verify Residency Requirement

6-month residency required unless you were married in Oregon.

⏱ Estimated Time: N/A

💡 Tips:

No requirement if married in OR
Oregon driver's license if applicable
Marriage certificate

Step 2

Complete Petition for Dissolution

Fill out Petition for Dissolution of Marriage.

⏱ Estimated Time: 2-3 hours

💡 Tips:

Filing fee: $280-330
State irreconcilable differences
Use Oregon court forms

Step 3

File with Circuit Court

Submit petition to circuit court in your county.

⏱ Estimated Time: 1 day

💡 Tips:

Bring original + copies
Pay filing fee
Get case number

Step 4

Serve Your Spouse

Have spouse served by authorized person.

⏱ Estimated Time: 1-2 weeks

💡 Tips:

Cannot serve yourself
Process server or sheriff
Spouse can accept service

Step 5

Wait 90 Days

Oregon requires 90-day waiting period from service.

⏱ Estimated Time: 90 days

💡 Tips:

Cannot finalize earlier
Prepare settlement

Step 6

Exchange Financial Information

Both complete detailed financial statements.

⏱ Estimated Time: 2-4 hours

💡 Tips:

Required disclosure
List all income, assets, debts

Step 7

Draft Marital Settlement Agreement

Create comprehensive settlement agreement.

⏱ Estimated Time: 4-6 hours

💡 Tips:

Address all property
Include parenting plan if children
Both must sign

Step 8

Submit Final Documents

File settlement and proposed judgment.

⏱ Estimated Time: 2 hours

💡 Tips:

May need brief hearing
Some courts decide on papers

Step 9

Receive Judgment

Court issues Judgment of Dissolution.

⏱ Estimated Time: 1-3 weeks

💡 Tips:

Request certified copies
Effective immediately

Required Forms for Oregon Divorce

Petition for Dissolution (Varies by county)

Required

📄 Download Form

Financial Statement (Varies)

Required

Marital Settlement Agreement (Custom)

Required

Note: Always use the most current forms from your state's court website. Forms may be updated periodically.

Cost Breakdown for Oregon DIY Divorce

💰 DIY Divorce

$330-430

Filing fee: $280-330
Service fee: $50-100
Misc costs: $25-$100

👔 With Attorney

$4,000-20,000

Includes attorney fees, court costs, and filing fees for uncontested to contested cases

For detailed cost breakdown including attorney fees and scenarios: View Oregon Divorce Costs →

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Not understanding residency exception

Missing 90-day wait

Incomplete financial statements

Not addressing all property

Frequently Asked Questions About Oregon DIY Divorce

Do I need to live in Oregon for 6 months to file for divorce?

Not if you were married in Oregon. In that case, there's no residency requirement. Otherwise, one spouse must have lived in Oregon for 6 months.

Is Oregon a no-fault divorce state?

Yes, Oregon is a pure no-fault state. You only need to state that you have irreconcilable differences.

Can I file for divorce without a lawyer in Oregon?

Yes, Oregon provides forms and allows self-representation. Many counties have family law facilitators to help.

Need Professional Help?

While DIY divorce can save money in Oregon, consulting with an attorney can help you understand your rights and avoid costly mistakes.

Find Oregon Divorce Lawyers Questions to Ask a Lawyer